Okay – I have to admit it – I’ve been having quite a pity party since I got the word in March that I was being hit by a company-wide layoff. I had worked for the company almost five years and thought I would be there until I retire. So much for that thinking!

I’ve been doing everything a person should do when they’re layed off. I applied for unemployment. I revamped my resume’. I updated and organized all the information I needed for applications. I checked out all the job websites I could find. I keep checking the job websites. I applied for jobs. I keep applying for jobs. I’ve even had a couple of interviews. It’s all very exhausting!

Of course, what adds to the exhaustion is fighting the depression that keeps wanting to consume me. I know I need to trust that God will make a job available, and I do. And I’m doing everything I can to be ready. But I’m afraid I am very human, and the doubts and fears just keep niggling at my being.

This week, an opportunity to think about something besides my miserable life presented itself to me. The Oklahoma Special Olympics is taking place at Oklahoma State University in Stillwater. Since I live in Stillwater, this was perfect. I called and volunteered.

The Volunteer Coordinator asked if I would be willing to help with the LETR picnic on Wednesday. I said I would. LETR stands for Law Enforcement Torch Run. This group of law enforcement officers raises money for the Special Olympics Oklahoma – and they actually run the “Flame of Hope” to the Opening Ceremonies. The picnic is a way to say “Thank you” to these generous officers.

I spent 2 1/2 hours at OSU last night helping with the picnic. There were many, many officers there. Here are just a few.

Oklahoma LETR Officers

Oklahoma LETR Officers

Oklahoma LETR Officers

Oklahoma LETR Officers

Oklahoma LETR Officers showing their bikes to Special Olympics athletes.

I enjoyed meeting and working with Jennifer and Felicia. We also had four lovely ladies from Stillwater H.S. leadership program with their coordinator, Richard.

Wonderful volunteers from Stillwater H.S. leadership program.

These ladies were so helpful and charming. I’m glad I got to meet and spend time with Rana, Ana, Allie, and Kaley. (I apologize to you, ladies, if I didn’t spell your names correctly. I should have asked you how to spell them.)

What a great evening!

So, if you ever have occasion to feel sorry for yourself and indulge in a pity party, that’s okay. But if it continues on for too long, focus your energy on doing something for someone else. It’s amazing how much better you feel!